A 5-year-old child is unresponsive and cyanotic, with weak pulses. What should the EMT do next?

In a situation where a child is unresponsive, cyanotic, and has weak pulses, the priority is to ensure adequate ventilation. The correct action is to ventilate using a bag-mask device. When a child presents with these signs, it is critical to address breathing issues immediately, as they may be the cause of unresponsiveness and cyanosis.

The use of a bag-mask device allows for the delivery of positive pressure ventilation, which can help to restore adequate oxygen levels in the bloodstream and potentially revive the child’s responsiveness. This step is essential before initiating chest compressions or using an AED since effective ventilatory support can sometimes restore normal heart function and awareness.

Ensuring that the child is adequately ventilated takes precedence because hypoxia, or low oxygen levels, may be reversible through effective ventilation, potentially leading to an improvement in the child’s condition. Once ventilatory support is established, other interventions can be put into place as needed.